POLICY SPEECH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22846, 29 September 1937, Page 14

POLICY SPEECH

ME. LYONS' REVIEW

DEFENCE OF; AUSTRALIA COMMONWEALTH AND TRADE By Tclcßrapli—Press Association —Copyright (Itoceived September 20, 12.30 p.m.) HOBAKT. Sent. 28 Delivering his policy speech in his electorate at Deloraine to-night, the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Lyons, said the Government's defence policy was a balanced oni providing for all aspects , of Australian defence, co-ordination of peace services and the British Navy. The sum spent on defence in the past four years totalled £31,500,000. The efficiency of the air force had been increased tenfold and the permanent personnel trebled. The Government contemplated an extension of trade treaties with foreign countries if beneficial arrangements could bo qvolved, but the policy of Imperial preference would bo maintained.

Tho plan of assisted migration from Britain along pre-depression lines, with nominated passages, would be revived The Government, if returned, would give effect to the Banking Commission's recommendations by establishing a mortgage bank department of> the Commonwealth Bank, which would fill the gap in the banking structure. Finance would also be provided for secondary industries, but under no circumstances would tho Government allow party political control of the banks. Steps would be taken next session to create a national insurance scheme which would- provide benefits for 3,000,000 people and their dependants. Mr. Lyons emphasised the Government's desire to facilitate the Empire flying-boat and Tasman air mail services; to ensure a wider outlook for rural producers; more and better scope for the nation's youth; and greater care of infant life.

Ho claimed that employment had reverted to the pre-depression level and that the Commonwealth had never been more prosperous.